Capability Matrix

A capability matrix is a tool used in government contracting to evaluate and display the strengths, weaknesses, and gaps of a contractor or a team of contractors. It is often used during the capture process to assess whether an organization or teaming arrangement can meet all requirements of a solicitation. A capability matrix may also be referred to as a capability assessment matrix or meatball chart because of the way it visually represents capabilities with colored indicators.

What is a Capability Matrix in Government Contracting

In federal procurement, a capability matrix provides a clear snapshot of how well a company’s qualifications align with customer needs. It lists solicitation requirements or desired competencies along one axis and the company’s (or team’s) capabilities along the other. Each cell then shows whether the contractor has a strength, partial ability, or gap.

For example, in a major IT contract pursuit, a capability matrix might include categories such as cybersecurity, cloud migration, help desk support, and program management. A team capability matrix would then map which prime or subcontractor covers each area, helping to identify where additional partners are needed.

Capability Matrix in the Capture Process

During the capture process, a capability matrix evaluation helps decision-makers determine bid strategies. It answers key questions: Do we have the skills required? Are there gaps we need to fill through teaming? How do our strengths compare to competitors?

This makes the capability matrix an important part of bid/no-bid decisions and teaming strategies. Contractors often use a capability matrix for teaming to show partners where their offerings complement each other.

Capability Matrix Template and Example

A capability matrix template usually takes the form of a spreadsheet or chart with requirements on one side and capabilities on the other. A meatball chart is a visual version where colored circles indicate the level of capability, such as:

• Green for strong capability

• Yellow for partial capability

• Red for no capability

A capability matrix example might show how a team of subcontractors collectively covers 100 percent of solicitation requirements. This visual makes it easy for executives and proposal teams to see whether the pursuit is feasible.

Benefits of a Capability Assessment Matrix

• Provides a clear overview of strengths and weaknesses

• Identifies teaming opportunities and gaps

• Supports competitive analysis in the capture process

• Serves as a communication tool for executives, partners, and proposal teams

How GovDash Helps with Capability Matrices

Building a capability matrix manually can take hours, especially for complex RFPs. GovDash streamlines this process by analyzing solicitation requirements and mapping them to your company’s past performance and partner capabilities. The platform can generate a capability assessment matrix or meatball chart in minutes, allowing you to identify teaming needs quickly and present a clear evaluation to stakeholders. This makes capture planning faster, more accurate, and easier to manage.